Disclaimer: I do not own the rights to Rising of the Shield Hero, Star Fox, Legend of Zelda, Sonic the Hedgehog, or Super Mario characters.
Chapter 9: Last-Minute Battles and Preparations
Zeltoble
Krystal and her team followed Fohl back to his home. It was a small, dilapidated shack in the slums of the city.
"Is this your house? It looks... cozy."
Keel said as she examined the shack. Fox gave her a nudge to tell her not to anger or annoy Fohl. But Fohl just shook his head in agreement.
"This piece of crap is the only thing I can afford in this shithole."
"Aren't you worried about your sister being attacked while you're fighting in the Coliseum?"
Krystal asked.
"Used to, but after getting rid of a few bastards that thought they could take advantage of us, everyone seems to have gotten the message that I'm not to be messed with. And my reputation at the Coliseum helps as well."
Fohl explained. The group walked inside and saw Fohl's sister lying in bed. She had the same hair color as her brother, but her hair was longer. She also had shortness of breath and seemed to be in pain.
"Fohl, is that you?"
"Yeah, it's me, Atla. I have your medicine."
"That's good, and how much do you have left over? Can we afford food tonight?"
"That greedy apothecary raised the price again. We wouldn't have enough for food, at least, that was until I met a potential employer."
"Oh, and can you trust them?"
"Well, she agreed to my twenty gold initial payment, so she's earned a chance. Now then, you said you needed to see the disease, right?"
Fohl said, confusing Atla.
"Fohl, who are you talking to? Is she here?"
Atla asked, concern evident in her voice.
"Yeah, don't worry though. I'm here if they try anything funny."
Fohl said. While Keel was angered by his words, it seemed to have made Atla calm down. That is when Krystal approached.
"Hello there, Atla. I am Krystal, the Sword Hero."
Atla was shocked to hear this.
"The Sword Hero. Why are you here?"
"We heard about your brother's skills and wanted to ask if he was interested in joining our party. That's when we heard about his reason for fighting and wanted to offer aid."
"Oh, okay. And can you help?"
"Well, let's see. Just calm your mind."
Krystal said as she placed her hand on Atla's forehead. Krystal then used her telepathy to search Atla's mind about this disease. She learned that in addition to what she's seen of her, it also robs her of her ability to walk and see. When Krystal took her hand off, Atla let out a breath of surprise.
"What, what was that you just did?"
She asked.
"It's an ability I have. It allows me to gather information from someone's mind."
"You can read minds?"
Fohl asked in shock.
"Yes, Fohl."
"Then, what else did you see!?"
He asked, getting angry that Krystal saw something he didn't want her to see.
"No need to worry. I only searched for information about the disease plaguing your sister. I respect people's privacy and never abuse my gift."
While skeptical, Fohl decided to believe Krystal for now. That is when Krystal pulled out a large pill from her pocket space in the sword.
"What is that?"
"It's the medicine,"
Krystal answered Fohl. She then dropped it on Atla and it vanished in a shower of sparkles. Atla's breathing became normal and she began to look much better.
"Fohl, I, I can see. I can see again!"
Fohl was shocked at this, but then he began to smile.
"That's, that's great! That's wonderful, Atla!"
"Thank you, Sword Hero."
Atla said with a bow.
"You're welcome, but your treatment isn't done."
"Huh, it's not?"
"That's just temporary relief. It'll alleviate the effects of the disease, but not cure it. We need to bring you to the one who made that medicine."
"And where is he? And more importantly, can we trust him?"
Fohl asked.
"I understand you're skepticism, Fohl, but he's trustworthy. He's a good friend and helps people all the time."
"And how much does he ask for?"
"Nothing."
Fohl and Atla were shocked at this.
"Huh!? What do you mean nothing!? He has to charge something. No one does anything for free!"
"Well he does, but he may ask for something else instead of money."
"Aha! I knew it!"
Fohl shouted in triumph. Both Fox and Keel just shook their heads while chuckling a bit.
"He'll ask that you join us in defeating the waves."
Krystal said, deflating Fohl's moment of triumph.
"Oh, is that all? No money, no "favors"?"
"Hmm? Fighting the waves could be counted as a favor.
"No, I mean, well, you know."
Fohl then made hand signs to clarify the type of "favors" he meant. Krystal and Fox just an expression of shock from this.
"Wow, okay, first of all, no. Second, you're so lucky Peach isn't here right now."
"Who's Peach?"
Fohl asked Krystal.
"She's my friend and the Spear Hero, and she's very close to the doctor person you're talking about. You could say they're an item. And if she heard you assume he would do that, she would slap you until your cheeks looked like bloated tomatoes."
Krystal explained.
"Assuming she can beat me."
Fohl said with an air of confidence.
"Trust me, she can."
Krystal stated as a matter of fact. That's when her earpiece started to ring.
"Hey, Krystal, we got a problem!"
Slippy said from the other end.
"What is it, Slippy?"
"Our drones found a group of mercenaries approaching your destination. They're with the apothecary that was selling the tiger kid the medicine."
"That damn crook. I should've known there was a reason he was upping the prices besides greed."
"Yeah, we found out they were purposely trying to get Fohl to sell himself into slavery. But since you showed up and ruined those plans, they're just going to try and take him by force."
"I see, thanks for the heads up. Would you be able to teleport Atla?"
"You mean the tiger girl? She doesn't have a badge on her, so someone that has one on them would have to hold onto her, or give her their badge."
Krystal then turned to Fohl and Atla.
"Alright you two, we have a situation. The apothecary gathered a group of mercs and is on his way here."
"What!? How do you know?"
Fohl asked.
"I have gear that allows me long-range communication with someone who watches over us, and he spotted a group of mercs coming for us."
"But why?"
"For you two."
Krystal answered, getting looks of shock from Fohl and Atla.
"Turns out he was working for someone and he was trying to force you into selling yourself into slavery. But since I put a stop to that plan, they're coming to do it by force."
"That bastard! I knew he was up to something. Well, it's about time I pay him back for his services then."
Fohl said as he got ready for a fight. Krystal nodded and turned to Keel.
"Okay, Keel, you take Atla and head back to base."
"What!? Why can't I stay and help?"
"Atla can't fight and she can't teleport without our badge. You hold onto her and get her to safety."
Keel was about to speak up, but Krystal stopped her.
"That's an order, Keel. After she's safe, then come back. We'll need the help."
Keel nodded in understanding.
"Right! Alright, Atla, hold on."
Keel said as she grabbed Atla's arm. They were both covered by a blue light and teleported away.
"Good, now we just take care of the mercs."
Fox said, receiving a nod from Krystal and Fohl. Then they heard the sound of many footsteps outside.
"Come out you damn beasts! We have you surrounded."
The apothecary demanded. The group walked out and saw the alleyways filled with mercs. That is when Fohl saw the apothecary and spoke up.
"You bastard! How long have you been planning this?"
"Ever since we saw your first fight, but your price was too much. So we opted to buy you as a slave. Cheaper that way."
The apothecary said with a crooked grin. Fohl was about to say something, but Krystal stopped him.
"I suggest you stop this now, while you can."
She said, this only got laughter from the mercenaries.
"Ha! This bitch got spirit. Can't wait to break it."
"Let's see how long she keeps that defiant spirit when we start playing with her."
"I wonder how much we can sell her for once we turn her into the pitiful whore she's meant to be."
The mercs mocked. Krystal kept her confident stare but noticed that the leader didn't mock her. He was analyzing her.
"Quiet, you fools!"
He shouted, making the mercs stop laughing.
"Did you forget she's the Sword Hero? Did you forget how only a few of her companions defeated a platoon of knights in Melromarc? Keep your wits about you, else you end up like them."
The mercs listened and prepared for battle. Looks like they won't be as reckless as the knights, but they still shouldn't be a problem. Soon the mercs rushed, but Krystal raised her sword which was in its Cerinian form and glowing.
"Fohl, jump!"
Fox said. Fohl and Fox jumped as Krystal brought her sword down, creating a small earthquake. It pushed all the mercs back, giving Krystal and her team an opening to escape down an alley.
"Don't let them escape!"
The leader ordered. The mercs gave chase after the heroes.
"Is there an open area we could fight them in?"
Krystal asked Fohl.
"Yeah, follow me."
Fohl took the lead and began to take winding alleyways with the mercs in hot pursuit. Soon they entered the sewers of Zeltoble.
"These tunnels lead to the outside of Zeltoble. If we follow them we'll reach the outside of the walls. Now why would you like to reach an open area? Do you have some spell of skill that'll help us?"
Fohl asked. Fox and Krystal just smirked.
"Yes, if we reach an open area, we can take out all the mercs in one fell swoop."
Fox answered.
"Alright then, I'm trusting you two. Let's get moving."
They started to walk down the tunnel when,
"There they are, get them!"
A merc called out. Soon he and others gave chase.
"Move it!"
Krystal said as she, Fox, and Fohl started to run down the tunnels. As they were running, they noticed that the mercs were catching up.
"How the hell are they catching up to us?"
Fox asked.
"Speed buffs."
Fohl answered.
"It's not that hard to buy enchanted gear, or even find someone to enchant the gear you already have in Zeltoble if you have enough money. They must have speed enchanted gear so we can't outrun them."
"Then let's split up and lose them in the tunnels."
Krystal said.
"But-"
Fohl was about to protest but then felt a presence in his head.
"Was that you?"
"Yes, sorry about that, but now we all know the layout of the sewers."
Krystal said as she copied the layout of the sewers from Fohl's mind and shared it between her and Fox. Fohl nodded and the three split up to lose the mercs. The mercs also split up to chase the three. The mercs are confident, believing that their enchanted boots will allow them to catch the three warriors. But, since Krystal and her friends know the layout of the sewers thanks to Fohl's knowledge of them, they can pick off the mercs by using side passages that the mercs do not know about. Eventually, they manage to meet up at the exit to the outside.
"So, did you lose your pursuers?"
Fohl asked Fox and Krystal.
"More like took care of them."
Fox said brandishing his blaster.
"Same here. Knowing all the side passages made it quite easy to deal with them."
Krystal said. Fohl was impressed while wondering what Fox's weapon was. It looked similar to the pistols Faubrey has but much more advanced. He decided to ask about it later.
"Alright, let's go. With any luck, we won't see those bastards once we leave."
Fohl said as he and the others exited the sewers. Soon they were met with the cool evening breeze.
"Yes! We made it out! Fuck that apothecary and his boss! I'll never have to deal with that bastard again!"
Fohl exclaimed, only to be met with laughter.
"Is that so?"
Fohl turned to see the mercenary leader, who was laughing, along with the apothecary and his small army of mercs.
"I have to admit, I didn't expect you to escape my men, but I was prepared for it. I never leave things to chance."
The merc leader said. Krystal and the others got ready for battle.
"Oh, I'm glad to see you still have spirit. That'll raise your value when we sell you, and as for you, Sword Heroine, some members of the Merchant Council are offering high pay for you."
"That's surprising since I'm the Sword Hero. One of the only ones who can defeat the waves."
Krystal said this hoping to make the mercs back off, but he just laughed instead.
"You seem to misunderstand, Sword Heroine. Being a Cardinal Hero doesn't make you untouchable, just a high-value piece. Anyone who controls a Cardinal Hero will have more power and influence in the world. Why do you think all those religions paint you and your fellow heroines as gods? It gives those in charge more power."
The merc explained. Krystal nodded in understanding and smiled.
"Thank you for explaining, and thank you for giving us time to prepare."
"Oh, you're welcome, but it won't work. As I said, I never leave things to chance."
The merc then pointed to some mages that had glowing staffs.
"I've prepared anti-magic circles and anti-area skill circles. You won't be able to use any wide-area attacks here."
The merc said proudly.
"Is that so?"
Keel said as she landed in front of Krystal and the others.
"You came back? You must be loyal or dumb, maybe both."
The leader mocked.
"Or, maybe I finished setting up our attack."
Keel confidently said. The leader just laughed along with his men.
"You missed the briefing mutt. I have anti-magic and anti-area skill circles set up already. Your preparation was a waste. There is nothing you can do now."
"Oh really? Rain Fire!"
Keel shouted. The mercs were smiling until a small explosion was set off nearby.
"What the!?"
The merc leader turned to see a series of fire blasts rain down on his men.
"How!? What happened to the anti-magic circles!?"
"They're still up sir! AH!"
A mage answered until he was hit. The leader could only watch in horror as his men were massacred. Unknown to him, it wasn't magic. Falco, Katt, Miyu, and Fay were providing air support while invisible thanks to Slippy's modifications. Once it was over, only the leader remained.
"So, what were you saying about not leaving things to chance?"
Krystal asked.
"I don't know how you did that but don't think I'll surrender peacefully."
The leader pointed his sword at Krystal.
"I'll fight till my last breath."
Krystal pulled out her sword in response, but then she noticed his sword. It was a Bao Sword with a black handle and a blue blade.
"Now that looks familiar."
She said as she turned her sword into the Gale Sword she got from the bandit in Melromarc. The leader had a shocked expression when he saw it.
"Where did you get the sword?"
"Oh, do you know this sword?"
"Where did you get it?"
The leader said in anger.
"From a bandit, I killed in Melromarc."
"I see, so he's dead then. That man was my brother. And just like us, our blades are brother blades. His was the Gale Sword, mine is the Lightning Sword."
"Interesting, I assume that it grants you access to lighting magic. Like this sword grants me access to wind magic."
"Yes, now let us battle."
"Wait! We have him outnumbered. Let's gang up on him."
Keel said. Fohl and Fox were about to join in as well, but Krystal held her hand up to stop them.
"Hang on, let me do this. I want to see if Eclair's training has paid off."
"But, Lady Krystal, we can-"
"Don't worry, Keel, I should be fine. Besides, with you all here he has no chance of escape."
Krystal said. Keel was still hesitant, but Krystal gave a confident nod and reassured her. Krystal then faced off against the leader. The two just circled each other for a bit, until the merc charged at Krystal. The two clashed blades for a while when Krystal noticed something. Unlike his brother, this man was not using buffs to increase his speed. At least, not yet.
The two continued like this until the merc parried one of Krystal's attacks. He then got into a stance and began to glow blue with sparks of electricity surrounding him. That's when he charged at Krystal at lightning speed. Krystal was going to be cut in two when she glowed green and leaped out of the way with a gust of wind. After she landed safely, and the merc came to a stop, the two stared at each other.
"It appears you are the superior fighter. Your brother cast many speed buffs at the beginning of our battle. You, on the other hand, are waiting for the perfect moment to use yours."
"Yes, Sword Hero. Unlike my foolish brother, I don't use all my tricks at the start of a battle."
"Same here."
Krystal and the merc got ready before they charged at each other again. This cycle continued, anytime the merc had a chance, he used his electric spells to increase his speed. But Krystal would use her wind spells granted by her sword to evade.
"What's going on?"
Keel said.
"Why is she only using the wind spells defensively? She should be able to strike just as quickly as that guy, maybe even faster. So why doesn't she?"
"Don't worry about it, Keel."
Fox said as he put his hand on her shoulder.
"Krystal has everything under control."
With Fox's reassurance, Keel went back to watching the fight. Krystal continued to use the magic of the Gale Sword to evade the merc's attacks, but she began to smile.
"Good, it's ready."
A green glow began to cover the battle area and four magic circles surrounded the merc leader.
"What the? What is this?"
He asked fear evident in his voice.
"It's the end. Activate magic skill, Cyclone Cage!"
Soon a strong cyclone appeared and surrounded the bandit. He tried to get out, but the winds were too strong. While he was trying to figure a way out, he was slashed on his right arm. He turned to defend the next attack, but then he was slashed on his back.
"What the hell is this!?"
"It's a trump card provided by the Gale Sword. Every time I dodged your attack, you never noticed I left a magic circle behind where I was. Once I had enough, I activated a prison of strong winds you cannot escape from. Meanwhile, I can ride the winds and attack you from any angle. This does use a considerable amount of MP, but unlike your brother's buffs, it's not a constant drain. The spell will last for around five minutes, more than enough to defeat you."
Krystal explained as she continued her attacks. The merc leader was covered in cuts as he desperately tried to defend against lethal blows. But it was getting harder, and he would succumb to blood loss if he received more cuts. With no other option, he gripped his sword as it began to glow bright blue.
"You're not the only one who has a trump card. Activate magic skill, Thunder Annihilation!"
A large thunderbolt came down on the merc, dispersing the cyclone and seemingly winning the fight. The merc smiled triumphantly until Krystal appeared and stabbed him in the gut.
"But, how?"
"I don't have to stay in the cyclone. As soon as I felt the concentration of magic, I left the danger area. With my increased speeds, I came back to deal the final blow."
The merc fell to his knees, waiting for Krystal to end him. But someone jumped at Krystal.
"Die you bitch!"
The apothecary shouted as he threw a bottle at Krystal. He was hiding under one of the corpses of the mercs waiting for the right moment to strike. Krystal was about to activate her reflector, but Fohl appeared and used his skills to send the bottle back to the apothecary. The bottle smashed into his face, spreading its contents all over him.
"NO! IT BURNS!"
He shouted in pain as his face and body began to melt. While he was writhing in pain, Fohl approached. The apothecary had used another potion he had to stop the effects of the first potion, but he was already badly scarred. He looked up to see Fohl and started to back away in fear.
"Well, well, well, it looks like you gave yourself a makeover. It's perfect! Your appearance matches your heart."
"What do you mean by that? No, stay back! Get away from me!"
The apothecary pleaded, but Fohl continued to approach him. Fohl raised his fist, getting ready to end the apothecary.
"Wait, please think about what you're doing Fohl. I'm the only one who can make the medicine for your sister. If you kill me then there will be no one to help her."
"We already found someone to help her. The friend of the Sword Heroine makes amazing medicine. And unlike you, he won't charge me everything I own for it. This is the end, you damn BASTARD!"
Fohl shouted as he brought his fist down on the apothecary's head, ending him. He pulled out his fist from the mess that was the apothecary, satisfied with his work.
"You good?"
Fox asked as he approached Fohl. Fohl turned and gave a smile.
"Yeah, just letting out some frustrations."
Fox nodded in understanding. Krystal had finished the merc leader and absorbed the Lightning Blade.
A new sword can be unlocked once the Lightning Blade has been mastered alongside the Gale Blade.
Krystal saw this message in her notifications.
"That's interesting."
Krystal said to herself. That's when she got a call.
"Hey, you guys done there? We're ready to bring you back."
Slippy said.
"I'll ask. Hey, is everyone ready to go?"
Krystal asked the group. Fox and Keel nodded and then they turned to Fohl.
"Yeah, I got everything I need already."
"Good, make sure to hold onto someone, Fohl. Slippy, we're ready."
Krystal said into her earpiece. A blue light surrounded the group when they were teleported back to the base. When they arrived, Fohl was shocked by what he saw.
"What the hell?"
He said in awe at the advanced tech he saw on the base. He just stood there when Atla ran up to him.
"Fohl! You're alright!"
She shouted as she hugged him.
"Yeah, thanks to the Sword Heroine."
Fohl answered before turning to Krystal and bowing.
"You saved me and my sister, Sword Hero. Thank you."
"You're welcome, Fohl. Now, Atla, why are you here? Shouldn't you be seeing Mario?"
Krystal asked.
"Who?"
"He's the doctor who made the medicine we gave your sister, Fohl."
Fox explained. That's when Daisy walked up to them.
"He's not here. He and Luigi went to take care of some business in Faubrey."
"Oh, when will they be back?"
"Soon, Krystal."
Daisy answered. With nothing else to do, everyone went to prepare for the wave in Siltvelt.
In Faubrey
The fox siblings, Boe and Bei, are searching around the forests surrounding Faubrey. Their target was last seen hiding around this area. Soon they found her, already tied up.
"Huh, someone beat us to the punch."
Boe said.
"But where are they?"
Bei asked.
"Doesn't matter. Let's grab her and leave before they get back."
Bei was about to grab her when she was pulled away.
"What the?"
"You know, it's not nice to take someone else's prey."
A voice said. The two turned to see Mario.
"Hey! Who the hell are you?"
Bei asked.
"Me, I'm just another bounty hunter. And I don't like it when someone tries to take my bounty."
"You're bounty? Fuck off! That's our bounty."
"Really? I don't remember you being the one to catch her."
Bei was getting pissed when Boe raised his hand to stop her.
"Listen, friend, you don't want this fight. Just let us take her."
"So now you're resorting to petty theft? I thought you were bounty hunters?"
Bei was angered by Mario's words, but Boe continued to speak.
"We apologize, but we need that bounty. So just hand her over, and no one gets hurt. Alright?"
"No can do."
Mario said as he got into a fighting stance. Boe just shook his head while Bei had a feral grin.
"So the hard way then. Don't blame us for what happens next then."
Boe raised his rifle when a bullet flew by his face.
"What!?"
"What the hell was that!?"
Boe and Bei asked.
"You assumed I was alone. Just like you, my brother is a crack shot. I suggest you focus on him, while you're with me."
Mario explained as he rushed Bei. He took her away from Boe so he could fight her one-on-one. Boe tried to follow but was once again shot at. He had no choice but to take cover and try to find the culprit. Back with Bei, she and Mario began to trade blows with each other. They clashed their fists and backed off.
"Well damn, I didn't peg you for a physical fist-fighter. Who the hell are you?"
"I'm-a Mario, nice to meet you."
Mario said while tipping his hat to her.
"Strong and well-mannered. I wish we met under different circumstances. Unfortunately, I'm gonna have to beat the crap out of ya for taking our bounty."
"Me and my brother got her first, so it's ours. Besides, I'll be fine. You're strong, but not as strong as me."
Bei was angered by this.
"Is that so? Then bring it on Mario!"
They began to trade blows once again. Meanwhile, Boe was still hiding, trying to find the person who shot at him. Soon another bullet was shot at him. He ducked and then aimed at the area it came from. But he couldn't see anyone.
"Damn, he's either got perfect camouflage or he's farther away than I thought."
Boe said to himself. He then took a deep breath and activated his skill, spirit sense. This skill allows him to feel the presence of any living being in a designated area. He first activated it for fifty yards but found no one. He then increased the range to one hundred yards, still nothing. He kept increasing it until he found the perpetrator at three hundred yards.
"Damn, he is a good shot. Shame we have to fight, I would've liked to have a drink with him."
Boe aimed and fired. While this shot should be impossible for this type of weapon, Boe was an exceptional shot and his aim was true. Luigi had to move his head to avoid the shot. Luigi let a whistle in admiration.
"Wow, he is good. Let's continue the fight."
Luigi said as he aimed his weapon, The Sharpshooter. Weapon shaped like a bow and arrow, but much more advanced. He aimed at Boe and released an energy bullet from it. Boe once again took cover and a long-distance shoot-out took place. While Boe had to take cover from Luigi's bullets, Luigi simply evaded every shot fired at him. Giving him more time to aim his shots. Luigi timed his shot for when Boe would come out to fire. As soon as Boe came out, he fired. Boe was barely able to get back into cover before the bullet took out his hat.
"Damn, I'm losing the battle. I need to find a better vantage point."
Boe said to himself. He began to move while making sure to stay behind some trees or rocks to not stay out in the open when he was hit.
"What!?"
Boe was shocked. He was sure he was behind cover. But the wound in his leg said otherwise. He tried to crawl away when a bullet knocked away his rifle. He was trying to make sense of this when he saw it. The bullets were going through the rock. They passed through as if it wasn't there. The last one whizzed by his face, a warning shot. Seeing no other way out, Boe raised his hands in defeat. Seeing this, Luigi jumped down to get him.
With Mario, he and Bei were still trading blows. While it seemed even, it was obvious Mario had the advantage. He parried every single attack with ease while Bei was barely able to keep up with Mario's punches. It took all her focus to avoid fatal blows. She backed off after a while.
"What the hell?"
She said, confusing Mario.
"Why are you holding back? I can tell you're not putting all your power into your punches. If you did, I'd be dead already."
"Well, I have my reasons. Let's just leave it at that."
Mario answered as he got back into a fighting stance.
"Tch! Don't get cocky!"
Bei activated a skill and began to glow red. She then rushed to Mario to beat him. Mario was able to block her attacks but they were different.
"Whoa, your faster and stronger now."
Mario said. But despite her increased speed and strength, Mario was still blocking all her attacks.
"Damn it. Let's go to the next level then."
Her aura became brighter and she was even stronger and faster than before. However Mario noticed something, she looked to be in pain.
"Are you okay?"
Mario asked as he continued to fend her off. She only growled in response as she continued to try and beat Mario. Seeing this, Mario decided to end this. After parrying a right hook, Mario punched her in the gut. She was knocked out and her aura dissipated. He then carried her over to where Luigi was. When he arrived, he saw Luigi tending to Boe's wound. Boe noticed Bei in Mario's arms.
"Bei! What happened?"
Boe asked in concern.
"Not to worry. She's only unconscious."
Mario said as she laid her down. After a few minutes, she woke up. She looked around in confusion until she saw Mario. She then got up and got ready to fight when Boe stopped her.
"Bei, enough. We lost."
"What!?"
"Yeah, he knocked you out and brought you here."
Boe explained. That's when Bei noticed the wound on his leg.
"What happened to you?"
She asked, trying not to show concern, but it was obvious to everyone she was worried.
"I lost. This guy is an even better shot than me."
Boe explained.
"Still, you two are pretty good. You passed."
Luigi said, confusing the fox siblings.
"Huh? Passed? What are you talking about?"
Bei asked.
"You two wanted to join the Spear Heroine's team right? We were sent to test you."
"Really? Damn. Well, while I'm glad for your approval, do you even need us? You two are really strong. We didn't stand a chance."
Bei asked, but Mario shook his head at this.
"We still need all the help we can get. It seems that all the kingdoms are plotting something against the heroines. Any allies we can get are appreciated."
Both Bei and Boe sneered at this.
"Yeah, welcome to our shitty and corrupted world. Home to the shittiest assholes around."
Bei said while throwing her hands up.
"It seems you've dealt with this corruption yourselves."
Mario said.
"Yeah, but I don't want to talk about it right now. You said we passed, right? So what now?"
"Well, we have to deal with a wave in Siltvelt first. But after that, we'll come to get you to discuss your place in our team."
"When's the wave?"
Boe asked.
"Tomorrow."
Mario and Luigi said at the same time. Boe and Bei were shocked by this.
"Damn, that doesn't leave enough time to prepare."
Bei said.
"Not for you two, but we're preparing already. So, that's why we'll contact you after the wave. Here."
Mario said as he handed Bei a badge.
"What's this?"
"That's how we'll contact you. Could you make sure not to lose it? Oh, and before I forget."
Mario pulled a rope bringing out the bounty.
"Here."
"Are you sure?"
"Yeah, we only needed her to engage you in combat. Now that we've gauged your abilities you can have her."
"Um, thanks."
Bei said as she grabbed the bounty.
"No problem. Well, see you later."
Mario said as he and Luigi were engulfed in a blue light and teleported away.
"Damn. The heroines and their allies have some amazing abilities."
"Indeed they do, but we'll see more of that once we join them. For now, we have a bounty to claim."
Boe said. Bei nodded and grabbed the bounty.
Back at the Base
Mario and Luigi had just arrived when Peach and Daisy came up to them.
"So? How'd they do?"
Daisy asked.
"They did good. Their skills are the real deal and they seem eager to help."
Luigi answered.
"And what did we find out about them?"
Mario asked.
"The drones are following them right now. Hopefully, they prove trustworthy."
Peach answered. Mario nodded at this when Fox came up to him.
"Hey, Mario. How did your mission go?"
"It went great, Fox. We found some possible allies."
"Hey, so did we. That's why I'm here actually, we need your help."
"What's wrong?"
"We have a sick girl and were hoping you could help her."
"I see, looks like it's-a Doctor Mario time."
Mario said as he followed Fox to the patient. That is when Buliara and Riju appeared with Rishia.
"Fueee! Where are we!?"
Rishia asked in shock.
"No need to be alarmed, little vai. This is our main base, where the four heroines and their allies come to train and rest."
Buliara explained.
"Oh, ok then. And where are we? Are we still in Melromarc or do the heroines stay in another country?"
Buliara and Riju just chuckled at Rishia's question.
"Why don't you go to the window and find out."
Riju said, pointing to a nearby window. While confused, Rishia did as she said and looked out the window.
"FUEEE! Where are we!?"
Rishia was shocked to see that they were floating above the planet.
"Is that, um, what is that? I'm so confused."
Rishia was on the brink of a panic attack when Buliara placed her hand on her.
"Calm yourself, young vai, there is no need to panic. That is the world, where Melromarc and all the other kingdoms are. We are above it, floating among the stars."
"W-What!? But how is that possible!?"
"You'll soon learn that many things are possible with the heroines, little vai."
"Okay, um, why do you call me "vai"? What does that mean?"
"Oh, don't worry about it. It's what we call females where we're from."
Riju explained. Rishia was having trouble taking this all in when Zelda arrived.
"Oh, Rishia. It's good that you made it."
"Lady Bow, it's great to see you."
Rishia said with a bow, but Zelda just waved it off.
"No need for formalities, Rishia. You can call me by my name, Zelda."
"Okay then, Lady Zelda."
Zelda and the others just chuckled at how most of the companions they make from this world address the heroines so formally.
"Alright then. Now, you said you were fluent in many languages, correct?"
"Yes, Lady Zelda."
"Then can you look at this?"
Zelda handed Rishia a book she had.
"We got this as a reward for a quest earlier, but none of us can read it."
Rishia opened the book and examined the first couple of pages.
"Lady Zelda, I hope this doesn't come off as rude, but can you read the local language of Melromarc?"
"Yes, thanks to a skill me and the other heroines obtained."
"Ah, that explains it. This is magical writing. The words are magically enchanted so only those who are allowed to read them can. It even supersedes skills that grant the ability to read and write the language."
"I see."
"Still, I believe you should be able to read this. You just need to learn the language naturally rather than have it granted by a skill."
"Oh, that makes sense. Do you think you could help me and the other heroines with that?"
"Of course, Lady Zelda. I actually brought a few books with me."
"That's great. Once everyone is here, we'll get started."
"Who's missing?"
Riju asked.
"Amy is. She took a quest to clear out a mine in Lute village. Some monsters from the last wave have taken up residence in it and pose a danger to the town."
Riju nodded and left with Buliara to take care of some business.
In Lute Village
Amy had just arrived with her team. It consisted of Sonic, Knuckles, Raphtalia, and Rifana. This quest caught her interest because the rewards were many ores found in the mine. Tails said that the ores could prove useful in powering up her shield. He also suggests Amy start absorbing anything she comes across as some strong abilities are locked behind seemingly average objects. Amy took his words to heart and picked up a rope she found and fed it to her shield.
Rope Shield unlocked. Airstrike Shield ability unlocked. Can create a shield within a five-meter radius. The shield lasts for fifteen seconds before vanishing.
Amy liked the sound of this ability. She then picked up a nearby pipe and absorbed it as well.
Pipe Shield unlocked. Shield Prison ability unlocked. Can create a cage of shields anywhere within five to six meters. The cage lasts for fifteen seconds before vanishing.
"Neat."
Amy said as she read the description of the shields she unlocked.
"What's up, Amy? Got something cool?"
Sonic asked.
"Yep. These two shields sound like they'll be handy."
Amy said before she went back to reading the rest of their abilities. The group continued into the mine when Knuckles spoke up.
"So, what are we looking for? Do we even have an idea as to what the monsters look like?"
"From what the elder told us, it's supposed to be some kind of large dog beast."
Amy answered. Raphtalia and Rifana froze when they heard this. Amy, Sonic, and Knuckles turned to them confused as to why they stopped.
"Hey, are you two okay?"
Sonic asked.
"This dog monster, does it have multiple heads?"
Raphtalia asked.
"Hmm, now that you mention it, yes. The elder did say it was a two-headed dog monster."
Raphtalia and Rifana tensed up after hearing that. Amy, sensing their despair, walked up and placed a hand on each of their shoulders.
"What's the matter?"
She asked in a comforting tone.
"The monster that killed our parents was a dog monster with three heads. We thought this monster may have been the same one."
Rifana answered. Both she and Raphtalia were shaking with fear and anger at this point, but Amy pulled them close to her.
"It's okay now. I understand that must have been a traumatizing experience for you two, but you are much stronger now, you don't have to be afraid."
Amy's words worked and the two girls calmed down.
"Still, if you don't feel that you two are ready to face this monster, then you can go back and we can take care of this."
"No, Lady Amy, we won't abandon you."
"Yeah, we'll help. We can face the beast."
Raphtalia and Rifana said.
"Very well, let's go."
Amy said. As the group continued down the tunnel, Sonic walked up next to Amy.
"Well done, Amy. You seemed to have calmed their nerves."
"It was nothing, Sonic. Just did what I thought needed to be done."
Sonic just nodded at this as they continued their journey. While they were going down the mine they noticed the lack of monsters.
"Hey, Amy, didn't the old man say there were a bunch of monsters here? Why haven't we found any yet?"
Knuckles asked.
"Perhaps they were eaten. With no other food sources in the mine, they probably started to eat each other."
Rifana answered.
"Then that's a problem. With all the monsters eaten the next available food source is the village next to the mine."
Raphtalia stated in concern.
"Then let's take out the beast before it gets to that point."
Knuckles said as he punched his fists together. Nodding Amy and the others continued to venture deeper into the mine. They eventually came upon an open room and in the center was a large, two-headed dog. It was sleeping so this was the perfect chance to get the jump on it. Knuckles and Sonic were about to attack when Amy stopped them.
"Hold up, I think we should let Raphtalia and Rifana take care of the monster."
Amy said in a hushed tone.
"What?"
Sonic and Knuckles said in a hushed tone as well.
"Yeah, consider another test to see how far they've come, plus, they need this."
"What do you mean, Lady Amy?"
Raphtalia asked in a hushed tone.
"Despite what you said earlier, I can still tell that you are dealing with the trauma from the waves."
Raphtalia and Rifana wanted to refute this, but she was right. Even now, despite the dog beast being different from the three-headed dog that killed their parents, flashbacks came back as they gazed upon the monster.
"Use this to overcome your trauma. And don't worry, I'll be supporting you two. Sonic, and Knuckles, you two stay back and be ready to jump in just in case things go south."
Sonic and Knuckles nodded and watched as Amy, Raphtalia, and Rifana got into position by surrounding the beast. It was still sleeping and the girls nodded before Raphtalia rushed forward with her hammer. She was about to crush one of the heads when the dog beast woke up and backed away, avoiding the attack. It was about to counterattack until it felt a sharp pain in its back. Rifana had jumped onto the dog beast when it backed up and stabbed into it with her kunai and claw. The dog beast began to buck, trying to dislodge her. She finally lost her grip and fell off while leaving a kunai stuck into the beast's back. When she landed, the beast lunged at her at was about to bite her.
"Air Strike Shield!"
Amy shouted, creating a green shield in front of Rifana, blocking the beast's attack. It tried to break the shield but was knocked away by Raphtalia who struck its side. It stopped after sliding a bit and leveled a glare from both its heads at the girls.
"Are you okay, Rifana?"
"Yeah, thanks for the help."
Rifana said as she was helped up by Raphtalia.
"You ready girls? It looks like the beast is ready for round two."
Amy asked as she prepared for another scuffle. Raphtalia and Rifana got into a fighting stance, and Rifana pulled out another kunai from a pouch she had.
"Yes."
They both said with determination. The beast charged forward and the three split up to avoid the attack. Rifana used hit-and-run tactics with Amy protecting her from the attacks she couldn't evade. Raphtalia tried to strike with heavy attacks while it was distracted, but the beast would evade them every time she attacked. Amy protected Raphtalia as well, thankful for the Air Strike Shield ability.
"Damn it!"
Rifana said as she and Raphtalia stood next to Amy. The dog beast faced the opposite of them, both teams catching their breath.
"It keeps dodging Raphtalia's attacks. How does it know when she's about to attack?"
Amy too was questioning how the dog seemed to know when Raphtalia was about to attack as well. And that's when it hit her.
"The second head."
She said, getting Raphtalia and Rifana's attention.
"While one head is focused on us, the other is watching and listening for Raphtalia."
"Stupid beast, then how do we get the jump on it then?"
"Hmm, I got it. Me and Raphtalia will be the main attack force to draw its attention. Meanwhile, you strike when you have an opening, but aim for its eyes. Try to blind the beast, and if possible, aim for its neck."
Raphtalia charged forward while Amy stayed back to support and Rifana slipped to the side. The beast dodged Raphtalia's attack and was about to bite her when a green shield stopped it. Raphtalia then swung again and the beast dodged the attack. That's when Rifana jumped in and stabbed the eye of one of the heads. The beast let out a pain-filled yelp as it swung its head to shake Rifana off. But Rifana held on and stabbed the other eye with her claw. The other head tried to bite Rifana, but Amy summoned another shield that stopped the attack. That is when Rifana jumped off the head and landed on the back to retrieve her kunai that was still stuck there. She then leaped to the other head and plunged both kunai into its eyes, blinding the beast.
"Great job, Rifana!"
Raphtalia said as Rifana jumped off the head and landed next to her.
"Let's see how it fights now that it's blind."
The beast thrashed about in pain for a bit until it stopped and stood still. It was now using its ears to try and find the girls. Raphtalia to a step forward, kicking over some rocks. The beast heard this and charged at her. Amy rushed in front of her and blocked both heads with her shield.
"Raphtalia, send it flying!"
Amy ordered. Raphtalia did an upward swing and sent the beast into the air.
"Rifana, gut it!"
Rifana jumped up to the beast and plunged her claw into its stomach. She then pulled down, cutting open its stomach and revealing its entrails. The beast then landed on the ground and tried to get back up.
"Finish it, Raphtalia!"
Raphtalia rushed forward and brought her hammer down onto one of the heads, crushing it. She backed up and watched to see if it was still breathing. It just lay there, unmoving.
"I think we did it. It's dead."
Raphtalia said with relief.
"Alright!"
Rifana shouted as she pumped her fists into the air.
"Great job you two."
Amy said as she walked up. That's when Raphtalia and Rifana ran up and hugged her.
"It's all thanks to you, Lady Amy. Your orders were the key to victory."
Rifana said.
"Don't sell yourselves short now. Your strength and determination made this possible."
While the three were talking, the beast had gotten back up and the remaining head was about to bite down on Rifana.
"Look out!"
Amy shouted as she threw Rifana behind her and raised her shield. The beast was about to attack when.
*POW*
Knuckles had punched the beast and sent it flying into a wall.
"You should've crushed the second head to make sure it was dead. But still, you did okay."
Knuckles said as he crossed his arms. Sonic ran up to the beast to check if it was dead.
"Yeah, it's dead now."
Sonic said as he gave the group a thumbs up. Amy and the others let out a sigh of relief.
"Are you okay, Rifana?"
"Yes, Lady Amy. Thank you, Sir Knuckles. I shouldn't have let my guard down."
Rifana said while bowing to Knuckles.
"Don't worry about it, Rifana. Just remember to make sure the monster is dead next time."
"Right."
"Now, shouldn't you absorb this thing already?"
Sonic said to Amy. Amy nodded and went up to absorb pieces of the monster.
New Shield unlocked, Two-Headed Black Dog Shield. New ability unlocked: Alertness, awareness of all enemies within thirty feet, plus one foot for each level you possess. Unique Ability unlocked: Double Dog Heads, can manifest two dog heads from the shield that will bite down on any enemies within range. Can also cast two spells, one from each head, with one incantation at the cost of extra MP.
"Neat. I think that's everything. We should go report back to the village elder and complete the request."
Amy said as she absorbed the rest of the monster into her shield. The others nodded and the group left the mines. After speaking to the village elder, confirming the death of the monster, and receiving the reward, Amy's team teleports back to the base.
Back at the Base
Amy and her team arrived and were greeted by Tails and the others.
"Oh, Amy! Are you okay? How about the others? Did you get any wounds that need to be treated?"
Vanilla asked in concern.
"I'm fine, Vanilla, and so are the others. The quest wasn't that difficult. Just had to get rid of a big dog that decided to make the mines its new home."
Amy explained.
"Sounds exciting. I wish I could've joined you."
Cream said as she approached the group, but she sounded different.
"Well, maybe next time... Cream!?"
Amy said in shock as she saw Cream, now fully grown. She was as tall as Vanilla, sporting a tuft of brown hair on her head just like her mother, and was wearing yellow and orange adventuring gear.
"Wow, um, when did this happen?"
"Vector and his team took her down to the forests to level up the other day. I was quite surprised myself. I know you all mentioned how beast people grow up as they level up, but I wasn't expecting it to be so quick."
Vanilla explained. Amy just chuckled as she rubbed the back of her head.
"Yeah, neither was I when it happened to me. But, are you sure about this Cream? We'll be in constant danger, and not just from monsters. I'm sure Tails and the others have mentioned how most of the kingdoms are plotting against us."
"You're my best friend, Amy. I want to help you, just like you helped me when Chocola went missing."
Amy just stood there, moved by Cream's words.
"Alright then, I guess I can't stop you then. Welcome to the party, Cream."
"Thank you, oh, but I still need to get my magic appraised. Miss Eclair said once I do that, it will be easier to buy equipment for me."
Cream explained, Amy nodded and was about to head off when Zelda ran up to her.
"There you are, Amy. Come on, Rishia and the others are waiting for us."
Zelda said as she pulled Amy along.
"Huh? Where are we going? Who's Rishia? And what others, and what are they waiting for?"
Amy asked while she was being dragged along.
"Rishia is a new companion of mine, she's going to teach us the languages of this world. The others are Peach and Krystal, and we're heading to the room where she's teaching us."
"But why? We can already read and understand the languages of the world."
"Because of a skill. It turns out that there is magic that prevents us from reading certain scriptures unless we know how to read and write the language ourselves. I believe this will be beneficial to us. So come on already, Amy!"
"Fine."
Amy said in surrender and went with Zelda to where Rishia was teaching them.
And that's the end of the chapter. Thank you all so much for reading and feel free to leave a review and have a nice day.